12 Things to Know Before Visiting Albania
- Why these are the must-know things to know before visiting Albania
- Choose Your Arrival Wisely before visiting Albania
- Cash is King
- Not-So-Sandy beaches
- Limited Halal Food Options
- Driving Challenges
- Google Maps Isn’t Perfect
- Taxi Tips
- Avoid Peak Summer
- Euros Are Accepted In Albania
- Language Barriers and Local Phrases
- Packing Essentials for Albania
- Beware of Raki in Albania
- Don't forget these important things to know before visiting Albania
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Why these are the must-know things to know before visiting Albania
After living in Albania for four years these are 12 things to know before visiting Albania. I’ve experienced firsthand the wonders and beauty of this incredible country. From the rugged coastlines to the bustling cities, I’ve learned a lot about what makes Albania unique, and I want to share these insights with fellow travelers. I had known these things before I arrived, so I believe they’ll help you make the most of your visit. My love for Albania runs deep, and I can’t wait for you to discover it for yourself.
Choose Your Arrival Wisely before visiting Albania
When planning your trip to Albania, the first decision you’ll need to make is how to arrive. While Tirana International Airport is the primary entry point for most travelers, it’s not your only option. This is particularly important depending on the type of vacation you’re planning.
For instance, if you’re more interested in Albania’s stunning southern beaches or the charming coastal towns, flying into Corfu, Greece, and taking the short ferry to Saranda might save you time and provide a more scenic entry into the country.
Not only will this route allow you to experience the beautiful island of Corfu briefly, but it also gives you a stress-free way to avoid a long drive through Albania. However, if you’re starting your trip in the north, Tirana remains the most convenient entry. Researching your first destination can help you choose the best airport, save on transportation time, and kick off your trip in the right direction.
Cash is King
Even though Albania is modernizing rapidly, cash is still king throughout most of the country, especially in rural areas. While larger hotels and restaurants in cities like Tirana might accept credit cards, small businesses, local cafes, and markets usually prefer, or even insist on cash payments.
The Albanian Lek (ALL) is what you’ll need for day-to-day transactions, and it’s a good idea to keep smaller bills handy. ATM’s are fairly widespread in cities, so you can withdraw cash easily, but once you venture into more remote areas, ATMs become scarce.
Additionally, try to carry smaller denominations, as breaking larger bills can be challenging, especially in rural markets.
Not-So-Sandy beaches
If your image of a perfect beach involves powdery white sand, Albania’s beaches might surprise you. While Albania boasts some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the Adriatic, many of its beaches are pebbly or rocky rather than sandy.
Popular spots like Dhërmi, Himara, and Saranda attract visitors with their crystal-clear waters and stunning views, but walking barefoot can be a challenge. This doesn’t detract from the beauty of these locations, though.
In fact, the rocky coastlines are perfect for snorkeling and exploring underwater life. Packing water shoes is a smart move to make your beach experience more comfortable. Ksamil, one of the more popular beach towns, has made efforts to provide sandy beaches for tourists. Though Ksamil will still have some rocky areas on the beach.
Embracing Albania’s rocky coastline opens up a world of exploration beyond lounging on the beach. Take the opportunity to snorkel, hike along the cliffs, or simply just enjoy the beauty of the Adriatic coast.
Limited Halal Food Options
When it comes to things to know before visiting Albania this is an important one if you’re expecting Hala food options.. Albania may have a majority Muslim population, but you’ll find that Halal-certified food options are not as abundant as you might expect, especially outside of Tirana. While some restaurants and markets offer Halal food, it’s not as commonplace in rural areas.
For Muslim travelers who adhere strictly to Halal dietary laws, self-catering is often a good option. Larger cities like Tirana, Durres, and Shkodra do have Halal-certified restaurants. Halal Restaurants can be harder to find just do a bit of research beforehand.
You can also find vegetarian options at many restaurants, which offer a safe alternative when Halal meat isn’t available. Albanians are generally very hospitable, so don’t hesitate to ask about your food choices—most locals will be happy to accommodate your dietary needs where possible, or at least point you in the right direction.
Driving Challenges
Albania’s roads can be an adventure all their own. If you’re planning to rent a car and explore Albania, expect an adventurous and thrilling driving experience.
In Tirana, the traffic can feel chaotic, with drivers often ignoring lanes or traffic signals. Once you leave the capital, road conditions can vary widely. The highways connecting major cities are generally in good shape, but rural roads can be narrow, winding, and full of unexpected surprises—like animals crossing or potholes.
When heading to the Albanian Alps or mountainous regions, ensure you rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle. It’s also worth noting that road signs aren’t always clear, and GPS can sometimes lead you astray, so having a backup map or asking locals for directions is a good idea.
Despite these challenges, driving through Albania offers incredible scenic views, especially along the coastline or in the mountains. Just be sure to take it slow and stay alert.
Google Maps Isn’t Perfect
One of the lesser-known things to know before visiting Albania is Google maps isn’t perfect. For most travelers, Google Maps is a reliable tool, but in Albania, it’s not always accurate. This can be particularly frustrating when navigating rural areas, where roads may be closed, incomplete, or simply misrepresented on the app.
While Google Maps is still useful for getting a general sense of direction, don’t rely on it entirely. Many travelers find themselves on roads that seem like shortcuts but lead nowhere or are in poor condition.
Something similar happened to me when I was in Santorini. It wasn’t so fun in the pouring rain and having to back up on one of the narrowest streets possible. Google led my friend and me to a set of stairs not to the restaurant we were looking for … NOT FUN but a great story to tell now.
It’s always a good idea to cross-check your route with locals or use an offline navigation app like “Maps.me” or “HERE WeGo,” which often has more detailed maps of Albania. If you’re exploring off the beaten path, asking locals for directions is a great way to ensure you stay on the right track. In doing so, you might discover hidden gems and unlisted spots!
Taxi Tips
Taking a taxi in Albania can be convenient, but it also requires a bit of know-how. In Tirana, it’s relatively easy to hail a taxi, but don’t expect all taxis to use meters. In fact, many drivers prefer to negotiate a fare upfront, especially if you’re a tourist.
Haggling may feel intimidating, but agreeing on a price before the ride prevents surprises. Reputable companies like Green Taxi offer more transparent pricing and the option to book through WhatsApp, making it easier for non-Albanian speakers to arrange a ride.
Always carry small bills for payment, as drivers might not have change for larger bills. While taxis are cheaper than in Western Europe, stay cautious and prepared to ensure fair pricing.
Avoid Peak Summer
Booking a trip during peak summer months is tempting, but July and August bring high temperatures and crowded beaches filled with locals and tourists alike.
Prices for accommodations and activities skyrocket, and finding a quiet spot to relax becomes nearly impossible. To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, in May-June or September-October.
You’ll still get plenty of sunshine and warm weather without the intense summer heat. Additionally, visiting in the off-season means lower prices, less crowded beaches, and more opportunities to connect with locals.
Whether you’re exploring the Albanian Riviera, hiking in the mountains, or wandering through Tirana’s busy streets, visiting outside of peak season offers a more relaxed and authentic experience.
Euros Are Accepted In Albania
Traveling from an EU country? Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas, making transactions convenient. While the official currency is the Albanian Lek, many businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, will accept Euros. Although often at a slightly less favorable exchange rate. It’s still good to carry Lek when venturing into more rural areas where Euros might not be accepted.
Another tip is to familiarize yourself with the exchange rate before you arrive, so you can better assess prices when paying in Euros. It’s also worth noting that some places may not accept cards, so having enough local currency on hand can save you a lot of hassle, especially in remote areas or when visiting local markets.
Language Barriers and Local Phrases
English is common in tourist zones, but learning basic phrases like “Faleminderit” (Thank you), “Mirëdita” (Good day), and “Sa kushton?” (How much does it cost?) is helpful. “Mirupafshim” (Goodbye). Learning a few words in Albanian can help create a better travel experience by connecting with locals. Albanians love it when you try and speak the language.
Packing Essentials for Albania
When packing for Albania, here are a couple of tips from my own experience. First, bring comfy sneakers and walking sandals because most streets are either cobblestone or, for some reason, slippery tiles (still trying to figure that one out!). For hiking the Albanian Alps, pack sturdy boots and weather-appropriate clothing. And if you’re beach-bound in summer, definitely pack water shoes—trust me, unless you love walking on rocks, they’re a lifesaver! I never hit the beach without them. Here’s another list of travel essentials I highly recommend.
Beware of Raki in Albania
Raki is more than just a drink in Albania; it’s a cultural experience. Albania’s traditional spirit is often homemade. Raki should be sipped slowly due to its strength. For first-timers, Raki might be a shock to the system as it can be quite strong, with alcohol content often around 40-50%.
Refusing may seem impolite, as it’s a gesture of hospitality. However, Albanians also appreciate honesty, so if you find it too strong, politely declining after a sip is generally acceptable.
Each region makes it differently, from grapes, plums, or other fruits. While it’s an acquired taste, Raki offers a unique way to connect with the locals and immerse yourself in Albanian traditions. If you’re invited to an Albanian home, expect to be offered Raki—it’s more than just a drink, it’s a cultural ritual. Just remember to pace yourself and enjoy the experience.
Don’t forget these important things to know before visiting Albania
As you prepare for your trip to Albania, keep these essential tips in mind to make your adventure smoother and more enjoyable. Albania is a land of rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
It also comes with its own set of unique challenges. While Albania is generally safe, it’s always wise to stay alert and follow common travel safety tips. Just be mindful of your belongings in busy areas.
Knowing what to expect, you’ll be able to fully embrace the beauty and culture of this hidden gem in the Balkans. I’ve fallen in love with Albania over the years which is exactly why I’ve chosen to live now. I’m confident that with a little preparation, you will love it as much as I do. Safe travels!
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